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Sports Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Meta

Program Manager, Local Partnerships

Chicago, IL

$174K/yr

Design and manage partnership programs that span multiple partner types (universities, sports, creators, local media, and culture) rather than a single vertical * Adapt national programs and ...

i9 Sports

Summer Camp Sports Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Help run summer camp activities, including organizing groups, managing transitions, keeping kids ... programs. We offer youth sports leagues, camps and clinics for kids ages 3 and up in today's most ...

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Sports Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do sports program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sports Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Program Manager, you need expertise in sports administration, organizational management, and program development, often supported by a degree in sports management or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and event management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and conflict resolution skills help you motivate teams and foster positive relationships with participants, staff, and stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for running efficient, engaging programs that meet organizational goals and ensure participant satisfaction.

What does a Sports Program Manager do?

A Sports Program Manager oversees the planning, organization, and execution of sports programs and activities within an organization or community. Their responsibilities often include developing schedules, managing budgets, coordinating staff and volunteers, and ensuring programs run smoothly and safely. They also evaluate program effectiveness, handle participant communication, and may be involved in marketing and outreach. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and a passion for sports are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Sports Program Manager vs Sports Coordinator?

AspectSports Program ManagerSports Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in sports management, recreation, or related field; certifications like CPR, first aidSimilar educational background; certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, manages staff, develops budgetsAssists in program execution, coordinates events, supports managers
Employer & IndustrySchools, community centers, sports clubsRecreation departments, sports organizations, schools
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsEntry-level or support roles, focusing on coordination tasks

The main difference between a Sports Program Manager and a Sports Coordinator lies in their responsibilities and scope. The manager oversees entire programs, manages staff, and handles budgets, while the coordinator supports these efforts by assisting with event planning and day-to-day operations. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the manager's role is more strategic and supervisory.

What are some common challenges faced by Sports Program Managers when coordinating multiple events or teams?

Sports Program Managers often juggle a variety of responsibilities, such as scheduling practices, managing logistics for games or tournaments, and overseeing coaching staff. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication among athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders to avoid scheduling conflicts and misunderstandings. Additionally, balancing limited resources—like facilities, equipment, and budgets—requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Successful managers prioritize effective teamwork, adaptability, and proactive planning to ensure smooth program operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Program jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Sports Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Sports Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Sports Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sports Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Sports Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,700 per year, or $53.2 per hour.
Program Manager, Continuum

Program Manager, Continuum

Urban Initiatives

Chicago, IL • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Urban Initiatives Overview
Founded in 2003, Urban Initiatives is a nonprofit organization that runs youth development programs in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Urban Initiatives' mission is to use the power of sport and play to empower Chicago's youth to achieve academic success, develop social-emotional skills, and build social capital. Currently, Urban Initiatives serves an estimated 85 schools throughout the City of Chicago.
Program Manager, Continuum
Urban Initiatives is seeking a Program Manager to oversee the implementation and quality of multiple sports-based youth development programs across a caseload of schools. This role manages coaches, partnerships, systems, and events, ensuring that programs are delivered with fidelity, care, and consistency.
The Program Manager plays a critical role in supporting a caseload of school-based programs, ensuring strong partnerships with school communities and high quality experiences for students, coaches, and families. This role is responsible for coach supervision and development, program quality, and seasonal planning and transitions. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role suited for someone who is organized, relationship-driven, and energized by creating meaningful opportunities for young people through sport and play.
This role may support:
  • Pre-K Soccer
  • Elementary Soccer (Play with Potential)
  • Middle School Leadership (Take the Lead)
  • Summer of Sport Camp

Our Culture:
Our healing-centered approach to youth development helps young people reach their full potential and puts YOU right in the middle of making an impact that will shape generations of Chicago youth. We are coaches by trade, and we bring this expertise into our work environment. You can expect us to deliver ample learning opportunities, growth mindsets, a culture of feedback and transparency, and fun as a core value. Our first-in-class benefits- including competitive salaries and fully-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance - are guaranteed to keep you in the game.
Are you ready to put passion into action to build a stronger Chicago?
Core Responsibilities
  • Coach Recruitment, Onboarding, and Supervision
    • Recruit, onboard, train, and supervise Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Take the Lead Coaches across assigned schools in the Near and Far South OR Southwest neighborhoods
    • Travel to partner school sites at least three times per week for site visits, coach support, and programming or events
    • Support assigned coaches employment cycle from onboarding and performance management through end-of-program offboarding
  • Program Implementation and Quality
    • Oversee high-quality program delivery aligned with curriculum, program models, and conditions for success, including:
      • Pre-K Soccer
      • Play with Potential (Elementary Soccer)
      • Take the Lead (Middle School Leadership)
      • Summer of Sport (Seasonal Programming)
  • Partnership and Stakeholder Management
    • Serve as the primary point of contact for school administrators and OST liaisons at assigned schools
    • Lead required start-of-year, mid-year, and end-of-year meetings and communications
    • Maintain strong partner satisfaction through proactive communication and problem-solving
  • Systems, Data, and Compliance
    • Manage program administration systems, including attendance, evaluations, and reporting
    • Maintain organized, up-to-date documentation and trackers
  • Department Engagement and Collaboration
    • Participate in department and cross-department meetings and planning
    • Collaborate with colleagues to problem-solve and share best practices
    • Provide timely feedback and insights to support team learning and program improvement

Key Competencies for Success:
  • Relationship Management: Build trust with coaches, school partners, and colleagues through consistent communication and follow-through
  • Communication: Share clear timelines, expectations, and updates; closes feedback loops promptly
  • Program and Organizational Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of program models, curriculum, and SOPs
  • Time and Resource Management: Manage multiple priorities, meets deadlines, and plans effectively for seasonal peaks
  • Problem Solving: Anticipate challenges, identify solutions, and follow through to resolution

Ideal Skills and Qualifications:
  • Experience managing youth programs, out-of-school-time (OST) programming, or similar community-based initiatives
  • Experience supervising, coaching, mentoring, or supporting staff
  • Strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Comfort using digital tools and systems to track tasks, data, and communication
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and youth-centered practices
  • Experience partnering with schools, families, and community stakeholders
  • Knowledge of social-emotional learning (SEL), positive youth development, and/or sport-based youth development models

Compensation Package:
  • $52,000 Competitive salary
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options available
  • Life, short term disability, and long-term disability insurance are paid 100% by Urban Initiatives
  • Option to contribute to a 401K with up to a 3% match of your salary after one full year of employment
  • Flexible Time Off available
  • Paid holidays (Martin Luther King Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve through New Year's Day)

Additionally, our values of Teamwork and Inclusion ensure that Urban Initiatives is an environment where you will be supported and welcomed by your coworkers and peers.
Target Start Date is August 3, 2026

Apply